Sir, I think there is another subject with regard to which
this Constitution deserves approbation. I mean the accuracy [Volume 5, Page 401]
with which the line is drawn between the powers of the
general government and those of the particular state governments.
We have heard some general observations, on this
subject, from the gentlemen who conduct the opposition.
They have asserted that these powers are unlimited and
undefined. These words are as easily pronounced as limited
and defined. They have already been answered by my honorable
colleague, (Mr. M'Kean;) therefore I shall not enter
into an explanation. But it is not pretended that the line is
drawn with mathematical precision; the inaccuracy of language
must, to a certain degree, prevent the accomplishment
of such a desire. Whoever views the matter in a true
light, will see that the powers are as minutely enumerated
and defined as was possible, and will also discover that the
general clause, against which so much exception is taken,
is nothing more than what was necessary to render effectual
the particular powers that are granted.

But let us suppose--and the supposition is very easy in
the minds of the gentlemen on the other side--that there
is some difficulty in ascertaining where the true line lies.
Are we therefore thrown into despair? Are disputes between
the general government and the state governments to
be necessarily the consequence of inaccuracy? I hope, sir,
they will not be the enemies of each other, or resemble
comets in conflicting orbits, mutually operating destruction;
but that their motion will be better represented by
that of the planetary system, where each part moves harmoniously
within its proper sphere, and no injury arises
by interference or opposition. Every part, I trust, will be
considered as a part of the United States. Can any cause
of distrust arise here? Is there any increase of risk? Or,
rather, are not the enumerated powers as well defined
here, as in the present Articles of Confederation?

Elliot, Jonathan, ed. The Debates in the Several State Conventions on the Adoption of the Federal Constitution as Recommended by the General Convention at Philadelphia in 1787. . . . 5 vols. 2d ed. 1888. Reprint. New York: Burt Franklin, n.d.